Solo Traveler's Dream Destinations: The Best Countries for Lone Explorers, Plus Two to Avoid

• Aleaya Duran shares her top advice for heading on your first solo trip abroad
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Single female traveler Aleaya Duran @aleayabella It offers numerous suggestions for your bucket list if you enjoy traveling solo as well.

However, before we begin, she wants to issue a caution regarding two well-liked backpacking spots that she believes solo travelers should steer clear of.

'I faced some tough times in the Philippines, particularly in Palawan,' the 22-year-old shares with MailOnline Travel. 'My visit coincided with typhoon season, making things challenging due to frequent flight cancellations.'

Besides the natural concerns, I was particularly anxious about my safety there compared to anyplace else because of the harassment I experienced from certain local residents.

The bold explorer similarly advises against visiting Cambodia for women traveling alone, noting that she felt particularly vulnerable there.

Where then should aspiring solo travelers add to their must-visit lists?

Aleaya, from Oregon , explains: ‘Switzerland, Iceland, Singapore and Japan was like a dream since I felt incredibly secure traveling there solo as a woman.

'In those places, I was the only person who ventured outside alone after dark because of the sense of security they provided.'

She also advises first-time solo travellers to start with 'very touristy places', as she did.

'Paris, Italy "And traveling in Bali served as excellent introductions to solo travel," she notes.

This does not imply that Aleaya avoids less accessible locations, as she found herself 'agreeably impressed by Laos.'

She clarifies: "Although it isn’t as significant a tourist attraction as its neighboring nations, Thailand And Vietnam boasts an abundance of attractions.

'The amazing people, along with the natural surroundings and wildlife – it genuinely made this one of my most cherished destinations.'

Aleaya mentions that she grew up in a 'very small town' and states 'there was always this urge to leave'.

She adds: 'I was curious about what lay beyond and eventually grew weary of awaiting someone else to join me.'

'I believe that traveling seems incredibly daunting at first. However, when you actually venture out, you discover that not taking the chance would have been much scarier.'

When Aleaya initially shared her aspirations for traveling alone with her family, she acknowledges that some members had reservations. However, she emphasizes that it's crucial to "trust your intuition and not allow others' opinions to hold you back."

He offers an excellent solution that suits his needs and those close to him, encouraging others to follow this example.

She clarifies, "I typically start with Google Docs to create an initial version of each daily plan and subsequently assemble a PowerPoint presentation for my relatives to keep them informed about my whereabouts and scheduled activities each day."

'Having this makes them feel more comfortable and assured that I am aware of what I'm doing.'

Although solo travel comes with significant costs, Aleaya shares that she managed 'to finance her trips by working numerous unconventional jobs'.

She states: "Many individuals lack additional funds for traveling purposes, and I was no different. I explored various methods to earn income from home, such as reselling second-hand clothing and taking up multiple job roles simultaneously."

Social media has additionally assisted in financing some of my travels, and I believe it's an excellent channel for individuals to earn income by sharing their passions.

The frugal explorer minimizes travel expenses by steering clear of 'a typical error' and refrains from making reservations through tour groups.

She cautions: "Although this can be beneficial for your initial journey or if you're anxious about traveling solo, it will double the expense."

She opts for carrying only a carry-on suitcase when traveling, thus always faces the challenge of 'very restricted space.' How does she manage this situation effectively?

She states: 'I use packing cubes to keep my baggage better organized. I ensure that when setting off for a new place, my suitcase starts out only halfway filled so there’s plenty of space left for numerous mementos.'

I'd argue that the most crucial necessity is medication since various nations stock different brands, making it challenging to locate what you need.

Although Aleaya maintains that solo travel isn't always glamorous, she has never regretted it since her first experience.

She concludes: 'The best aspect of traveling solo for me is the sheer freedom involved. No one is around to spoil my experiences or hinder my progress.'

Mostly, it has seemed as though only God and I are journeying through this world together.

'I can stroll through the streets and hills, completely absorbed in my surroundings. This experience is liberating and enables me to fully immerse myself in my current location.'

Looking for more content from Aleaya? Follow her on TikTok – @aleayabella or Instagram - @aleayabella For additional travel advice and motivation.

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